Obsessed with all things French or simply seeking things to do in Paris, France? Style insider and fashion designer Margi from NOM*d shares her favourite places on a recent buying trip.
But first, let’s check in with what’s been keeping founder and creative director of New Zealand fashion label NOM*d Margi Robertson busy.
You’ve recently received your ONZM, congratulations! How does it feel?
Quite humbled to be honest, but happy that a recognition for fashion can come from the deep south.
You were one of the judges of the 30th anniversary World of WearableArt Awards. What was that like? What did you think of this year’s show in particular?
This was the third time I have been a judge for WOW, and it just keeps getting better and better. The number of entries and the quality of the work is just mind-blowing! Difficult to choose which is the best, however, the collaboration with the other judges means it not just up to me! In the end, our decisions were all considered and unanimous.
Margi’s Guide to Paris
How often do you travel to Paris and why?
I go to Paris twice a year to purchase the imported brands we carry at Plume in Dunedin and Christchurch. Summer collections in September/October and winter collections in February/March.
Plume | 310 George Street, Central City, Dunedin
What is it about Paris that you love?
So much to love, the beauty of the architecture, the food, the culture and catching up with the friends from around the world I only see during these visits,
What’s your favourite Paris memory?
Seeing a NOM*d dress on a girl that wasn’t from New Zealand, she was American and had purchased it from a store in New York that we stocked!
Where do you always go, or what do you make sure you always do when you get there?
I always used to go to Colette, especially for lunch, but now its gone of course! But lunch at Merci, in Rue Beaumarchais ’cause they do the best salads; check to see what exhibitions are on so I can have a culture day rather than just looking at shops (this time went to Ronchamp to visit Chapel of Notre Dame du Haut at Ronchamp – an amazing experience!). It had been recommended by a friend, so not something that is widely known. Interestingly not many people we spoke to had been there either!
Merci | 111 Boulevard Beaumarchais, 75003 Paris
What has been your favourite Parisian purchase?
I purchased an antique memory ring years ago to replace one I had lost, the hair in it has turned greenish, which makes it look quite unique, twisted snakes and seed pearls – I love it! Have worn it every day since I bought it.
What do you love to order from your favourite French café or restaurant and where would we find it?
It’s always lovely to have a Pastis which you can get at any bar, and of course, frites never disappoint. Then there is Duck Magret, a favourite restaurant is Les Fines Gueules near Place Du Victoire in the 2nd. Have dinner there almost every visit. They have many organic wines on offer as well.
Les Fines Gueules | 43 Rue Croix des Petits Champs, 75001 Paris
Favourite museum or art gallery in Paris?
Pompidou is always worth seeing what’s on, but I love the Fondation Louis Vuitton if you are prepared to go out of the centre a little. The Frank Gehry architecture is superb.
Fondation Louis Vuitton | 8 Avenue du Mahatma Gandhi, 75116 Paris
Centre Georges Pompidou | Place Georges-Pompidou, 75004 Paris
Secret shopping spot?
The Broken Arm, a very cool store with a discerning collection of clothes and vintage books, and a great café to complete the experience.
The Broken Arm | 12 Rue Perrée, 75003 Paris
Favourite saying in French?
Ooh là là.
Where do you spend your time when you’re not busy buying for NOM*d?
Eating and sleeping! Or having a culture fix.
Tell us what inspired you the most on this trip? A silhouette, a fabric, colour palette, a location etc..
Le Corbusier’s Ronchamp chapel of light.
Chapelle Notre Dame du Haut | 13 Rue de la Chapelle, 70250 Ronchamp, France
Any intel on what to expect in your next collection?
Black.
